South Carolina continues to face economic turbulence as another major facility announces its closure, deepening concerns about job stability across the state. This latest development underscores ongoing challenges for workers and local economies, contributing to an already significant tally of recent layoffs.
International Paper’s Georgetown Mill Closure
One of the most substantial closures impacting South Carolina occurred at the International Paper pulp and paper mill in Georgetown. In October 2024, the company publicly confirmed its decision to permanently shut down the Georgetown facility by the end of the year. The closure has resulted in the loss of 674 jobs, including 526 hourly and 148 salaried employees.
The Georgetown mill had been operational for several decades, annually producing approximately 300,000 tons of fluff pulp, a key material used in products such as diapers and hygiene essentials. Despite the closure, International Paper stated it would continue serving its customers from alternative locations. Further details on assistance for affected employees can be found on South Carolina’s Department of Employment and Workforce website here.
Boeing’s North Charleston Facility Layoffs
In November 2024, Boeing announced significant layoffs affecting its North Charleston facility. Over 200 workers were laid off as part of Boeing’s broader global reduction initiative. The aerospace giant is reducing its worldwide workforce by around 17,000 jobs, roughly 10% of its total staff, as it navigates economic challenges within the aerospace sector.
The North Charleston plant primarily assembles the 787 Dreamliner aircraft, and these job cuts are part of nationwide layoffs affecting multiple Boeing locations. This move raised considerable concern for South Carolina, given the prominence of Boeing as a major employer in the region. Affected employees have been encouraged to utilize resources provided through the state’s official employment services available here.
McKesson Medical-Surgical Closure in Rock Hill
The healthcare sector wasn’t immune to recent job losses, with McKesson Medical-Surgical announcing its decision to close its Rock Hill facility in late 2024. This closure resulted in the loss of 179 jobs, significantly impacting the local economy.
The McKesson closure contributed to York County’s highest level of annual layoffs since the pandemic, totaling 475 job cuts in 2024. Workers affected by the closure are advised to visit the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce for assistance programs and unemployment benefits.
Yokohama TWS North America Closing in Spartanburg County
Adding to the string of recent industrial closures, Yokohama TWS North America announced the permanent shutdown of its facility in Spartanburg County. The closure, effective April 19, 2025, will impact 90 employees. Yokohama’s Spartanburg plant specialized in radial agricultural tire manufacturing, with the closure part of a strategic move by the company to optimize its U.S. production capabilities.
The Spartanburg facility’s closure underscores challenges facing specialized manufacturing sectors within the state. Additional information for those impacted by layoffs, including state resources and unemployment insurance options, is accessible on the official South Carolina workforce website.
Other Notable Closures and Layoffs
Several other significant closures have occurred throughout South Carolina over the past year:
- Stanley Black & Decker, Fort Mill: In March 2024, Stanley Black & Decker announced its facility in Fort Mill, York County, would permanently close, eliminating 192 positions. This closure affected manufacturing jobs, intensifying local employment challenges.
- Gentherm, Greenville: Gentherm issued a closure notice in March 2024 for its Greenville facility, set for May 3, 2024. The automotive supplier’s shutdown impacted 124 jobs, reflecting ongoing shifts within the automotive parts manufacturing sector.
- TTI Consumer Power Tools, Gaffney: In Cherokee County, TTI Consumer Power Tools announced the permanent closure of its HART manufacturing facility in Gaffney, impacting 114 workers as of May 1, 2024.
Details of these layoffs and closures, including specific WARN notices, can be accessed through South Carolina’s WARN notice reports available at the official website here.
Economic Impact and State Response
The series of closures across industries—from manufacturing to aerospace and healthcare—has heightened economic concerns statewide. Communities experiencing job losses face potential economic downturns, reduced consumer spending, and challenges in attracting new employment opportunities.
In response, state officials and economic development agencies have reiterated their commitment to workforce retraining, economic diversification, and attracting new investments to offset these losses. Initiatives led by the South Carolina Department of Commerce, available here, aim to support businesses and stimulate economic growth despite these setbacks.
As South Carolina navigates these closures and job reductions, residents impacted by these changes are encouraged to utilize state employment resources for immediate support and long-term job transition assistance. Further developments will be closely monitored to understand the full economic implications for communities statewide.
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